Couples Counseling Therapists in Hawaii

Photo of Shawn Johnson, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Shawn Johnson
Marriage & Family Therapist, PhD, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kapaa, HI 96746  (Online Only)
Are you seeking emotional support for yourself, your marriage or family? 'Sometimes feel caught in destructive conflicts with those you love? Are you or someone close to you impacted by a serious medical diagnosis? Or have you lost a beloved person in your life? These experiences and many others, can lead us to feel devastated or out of control. Therapy as a strength building relationship in which we explore your most challenging life stories with privacy, compassion and without judgment. When we meet, I'll invite you to set aside your day to day stressors and focus on new ways to improve your life.
Are you seeking emotional support for yourself, your marriage or family? 'Sometimes feel caught in destructive conflicts with those you love? Are you or someone close to you impacted by a serious medical diagnosis? Or have you lost a beloved person in your life? These experiences and many others, can lead us to feel devastated or out of control. Therapy as a strength building relationship in which we explore your most challenging life stories with privacy, compassion and without judgment. When we meet, I'll invite you to set aside your day to day stressors and focus on new ways to improve your life.
(808) 556-6040 View (808) 556-6040
Photo of Shelley Shane, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Shelley Shane
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, MFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96745  (Online Only)
I also love to work with couples to help you to get along better.
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
I also love to work with couples to help you to get along better.
Do you sometimes feel an underlying sense of anxiety, unease or overwhelm? Do you sometimes wonder why you react or respond in certain ways to certain types of situations? You are not alone! Current experiences sometimes release responses that we developed earlier in our lives. We may have needed them at the time, but there may be a better way. It may be time to help those parts update to respond in ways that are more appropriate at your current stage of life. Let's start from a place of lovingkindness, forgiveness and compassion...for yourself as well as for others.
(808) 895-0090 View (808) 895-0090
Photo of Amanda Jeffrey Platter, Psychologist in Hawaii
Amanda Jeffrey Platter
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression, relationship stress, substance abuse, clinical disorders, grief, chronic pain, and trauma.
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
I specialize in working with clients who struggle with anxiety and depression, relationship stress, substance abuse, clinical disorders, grief, chronic pain, and trauma.
Being our most resilient, healthy self is a process of acceptance and skill building. It is particularly hard when anger, sadness, and worry get in the way of connecting with others, advancing professionally, or maintaining health. It is important to have a safe place to process and solve life transitions without judgment. I utilize evidenced based psychotherapy and assessment to restore value based cognitions, mindfulness and healthy behaviors. Specialized treatment planning is the first stage of the process. Adults, adolescents, couples, and specialized assessment cases (ages 7 to 80+) are encouraged to schedule a consultation appointment.
(808) 201-0365 View (808) 201-0365
Photo of Jeff McBride, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Jeff McBride
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
4/22/24- Aloha, now accepting new clients under the HMSA umbrella. Medicare. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective, CBT, Jungian and Depth psychology. My training is in Jungian/Depth psychology. I work from the HMSA Online Behavioral Health platform only at this time. If you are paying out of pocket, we can make other arrangements. If you wish to contact me, email is the best. I am here to work with any adults, I usually have a waiting list for couples. I do not speak out of a book, I do not judge. The confidentiality of anyone I work with is very important to me.
4/22/24- Aloha, now accepting new clients under the HMSA umbrella. Medicare. I work from an Internal Family Systems (IFS) perspective, CBT, Jungian and Depth psychology. My training is in Jungian/Depth psychology. I work from the HMSA Online Behavioral Health platform only at this time. If you are paying out of pocket, we can make other arrangements. If you wish to contact me, email is the best. I am here to work with any adults, I usually have a waiting list for couples. I do not speak out of a book, I do not judge. The confidentiality of anyone I work with is very important to me.
(979) 316-7465 View (979) 316-7465
Photo of Amanda L. Hess, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Amanda L. Hess
Marriage & Family Therapist, MSc, LMFT, LMHC, CGT, MBACP
Verified Verified
5 Endorsed
Kapolei, HI 96707  (Online Only)
Thank you for considering Second City Counseling Services (SCCS) to address your relationship needs. We specialize in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (GMCT), an evidence-based therapeutic approach with over 50 years of research supporting it. GMCT focuses on three primary goals to improve relationships: 1. Enrich the friendship and respect in your relationship 2. Manage conflict with empathy and greater self-awareness 3. Honor the dreams you have, your partner has, and the dreams you share for your relationship.
Thank you for considering Second City Counseling Services (SCCS) to address your relationship needs. We specialize in Gottman Method Couples Therapy (GMCT), an evidence-based therapeutic approach with over 50 years of research supporting it. GMCT focuses on three primary goals to improve relationships: 1. Enrich the friendship and respect in your relationship 2. Manage conflict with empathy and greater self-awareness 3. Honor the dreams you have, your partner has, and the dreams you share for your relationship.
(808) 518-2090 View (808) 518-2090
Photo of Scott Ginoza, Counselor in Hawaii
Scott Ginoza
Counselor, LMHC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
I have specialty training in the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling (level 3) and have been trained in Family Resiliency through the FOCUS project affiliated with the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA).
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
I have specialty training in the Gottman Method of Couples Counseling (level 3) and have been trained in Family Resiliency through the FOCUS project affiliated with the University of California at Los Angeles (UCLA).
I was born and raised on Oahu. I studied psychology at the University of Hawaii at Manoa and received my master’s in counseling from Chaminade University. I been licensed as a counselor in the state of Hawaii since 2011. I realize that no two people are the same and as such I tailor my therapy to meet the specific needs of my clients. Whether you are struggling with anxiety, depression or another issue, I hope to help clients find a healthier way of living.
(516) 689-7774 View (516) 689-7774
Photo of Jenna S. Chang, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Jenna S. Chang
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kapolei, HI 96709  (Online Only)
Aloha! It is my firm belief for everyone to find the right therapist that fits them in order to be comfortable and empowered to be their best version of self. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked with individuals, couples and families of all ages, genders and cultures. I am committed to supporting my clients with managing their emotions, overcoming their challenges, and self-discovery to who they want to be. Three words that describe my therapeutic style are compassionate, eclectic and authentic. I bring my presence as a therapist to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself.
Aloha! It is my firm belief for everyone to find the right therapist that fits them in order to be comfortable and empowered to be their best version of self. As a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, I have worked with individuals, couples and families of all ages, genders and cultures. I am committed to supporting my clients with managing their emotions, overcoming their challenges, and self-discovery to who they want to be. Three words that describe my therapeutic style are compassionate, eclectic and authentic. I bring my presence as a therapist to create a safe and non-judgmental environment where you can express yourself.
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Ewa Stamper Maddox
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
Waimanalo, HI 96795
My particular interest and expertise is in challenges faced by couples: cultural differences, issues of step-families, aftermath of infidelity, fertility issues, serious illness or loss in the family, low-sex and no-sex couples, raising adolescents - and empty nest issues... Another area of work is dealing with the dissolution of the relationship - how to say good-bye with dignity, and how to mend a broken heart and renew your spirit, and your joy of life. And of course, if there are children involved, our focus would be on protecting them from the aftermath of the divorce as much as possible.
My particular interest and expertise is in challenges faced by couples: cultural differences, issues of step-families, aftermath of infidelity, fertility issues, serious illness or loss in the family, low-sex and no-sex couples, raising adolescents - and empty nest issues... Another area of work is dealing with the dissolution of the relationship - how to say good-bye with dignity, and how to mend a broken heart and renew your spirit, and your joy of life. And of course, if there are children involved, our focus would be on protecting them from the aftermath of the divorce as much as possible.
(855) 332-1605 View (855) 332-1605
Photo of Nancy Johnson, Counselor in Hawaii
Nancy Johnson
Counselor, MA, LMHC
Verified Verified
Waimea, HI 96743
Waitlist for new clients
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, failure to launch and relationship issues.
Are you experiencing stress or uncertainty. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? Change is a critical part of life, but sometimes we need support to navigate that change. By working together to foster better understanding of the issues at hand and create forward movement, balance can be restored and potential realized. Good mental health is more than the absence of symptoms, it is a robust sense of mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. If you would like to reach a state of positive mental health or work through some issues that are throwing you off your game, please reach out. I look forward to hearing from you!
I work with anxiety, depression, trauma, grief and loss, life transitions, failure to launch and relationship issues.
Are you experiencing stress or uncertainty. Do you feel overwhelmed or stuck? Change is a critical part of life, but sometimes we need support to navigate that change. By working together to foster better understanding of the issues at hand and create forward movement, balance can be restored and potential realized. Good mental health is more than the absence of symptoms, it is a robust sense of mental, physical and spiritual wellbeing. If you would like to reach a state of positive mental health or work through some issues that are throwing you off your game, please reach out. I look forward to hearing from you!
(320) 337-8923 View (320) 337-8923
Photo of Azita Mirin, Psychologist in Hawaii
Azita Mirin
Psychologist, PsyD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
I help clients identify habits that limit their quality of life and help them learn new skills to both overcome distress and achieve optimal functioning. For over 10 years I have assisted adults, children, and families to overcome difficult life transitions and address behavioral disturbances. I specialize in helping to overcome past or recent traumas, depression and anxiety, stress, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based treatments to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, and other problems.
I help clients identify habits that limit their quality of life and help them learn new skills to both overcome distress and achieve optimal functioning. For over 10 years I have assisted adults, children, and families to overcome difficult life transitions and address behavioral disturbances. I specialize in helping to overcome past or recent traumas, depression and anxiety, stress, addictions, and relationship issues. I specialize in psychological assessment and treatment of children, adolescents, and adults using evidence-based treatments to overcome trauma, depression, anxiety, substance abuse, relationship issues, and other problems.
(808) 495-0177 View (808) 495-0177
Photo of Kristy Anderson -Xplor Counseling, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Kristy Anderson -Xplor Counseling
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734
Kristy has experience working with anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting, play therapy, addictive behaviors, abuse, relationship issues, trauma, mindfulness training, caregivers, those with health challenges, as well as encouraging self-discovery to live your special one-of-a-kind authentic life.
You have everything you need within you to grow and heal, even though at times it might not feel like it. You are not alone in this journey. Reaching out can help you rediscover your innate health and offer perspectives not previously considered. Whether you are going through life stressors, mental health challenges, trying to get unstuck from a current situation, or finding the courage to achieve your dreams, the path of therapy and self-knowledge can help you find your way back home.
Kristy has experience working with anxiety, depression, life transitions, parenting, play therapy, addictive behaviors, abuse, relationship issues, trauma, mindfulness training, caregivers, those with health challenges, as well as encouraging self-discovery to live your special one-of-a-kind authentic life.
You have everything you need within you to grow and heal, even though at times it might not feel like it. You are not alone in this journey. Reaching out can help you rediscover your innate health and offer perspectives not previously considered. Whether you are going through life stressors, mental health challenges, trying to get unstuck from a current situation, or finding the courage to achieve your dreams, the path of therapy and self-knowledge can help you find your way back home.
(808) 862-6626 View (808) 862-6626
Photo of Daniel Lev, Psychologist in Hawaii
Daniel Lev
Psychologist, PhD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Kailua, HI 96734  (Online Only)
Whether you are dealing with chronic pain or other difficulties - I'm aware that you're hurting right now. Some of you may feel uncomfortable in more ways than one. You definitely want things to change and you probably want to feel more comfortable with yourself or with others than you're feeling right now. Perhaps you're struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, harmful habits, family or work problems, or couples conflicts. Combining my 20-years of experience with your personal strengths, we can work together to find the positive change and comfort you seek.
Whether you are dealing with chronic pain or other difficulties - I'm aware that you're hurting right now. Some of you may feel uncomfortable in more ways than one. You definitely want things to change and you probably want to feel more comfortable with yourself or with others than you're feeling right now. Perhaps you're struggling with stress, depression, anxiety, harmful habits, family or work problems, or couples conflicts. Combining my 20-years of experience with your personal strengths, we can work together to find the positive change and comfort you seek.
(808) 518-3841 View (808) 518-3841
Photo of Steven R. Nagasaka, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Steven R. Nagasaka
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96815
The pursuit of happiness is everyone's right and everyone has the right to choose their own path. However, circumstances in life can often get in the way and block the ability to find a healthy direction in that pursuit. Ho'okupu Counseling Services is a completely online counseling practice that specializes in guidance toward a happier healthier direction in life. Relationships with others is often one of the most influential aspect of our happiness. Here at Ho'okupu Counseling Services we believe that to be true-but include and often prioritize one's relationship with oneself.
The pursuit of happiness is everyone's right and everyone has the right to choose their own path. However, circumstances in life can often get in the way and block the ability to find a healthy direction in that pursuit. Ho'okupu Counseling Services is a completely online counseling practice that specializes in guidance toward a happier healthier direction in life. Relationships with others is often one of the most influential aspect of our happiness. Here at Ho'okupu Counseling Services we believe that to be true-but include and often prioritize one's relationship with oneself.
(808) 369-9946 View (808) 369-9946
Photo of Align Counseling Hawaii, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Align Counseling Hawaii
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Pearl City, HI 96782  (Online Only)
Hi, my name is Amy and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about. I have spent the past sixteen years working at a non-profit agency supporting individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression and relational conflict. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach tailoring therapeutic techniques to each individual’s goals. Please feel free to contact me for more information and support.
Hi, my name is Amy and I'm a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist (LMFT). I work collaboratively with individuals, couples, and families to reconnect with themselves and the people they care about. I have spent the past sixteen years working at a non-profit agency supporting individuals dealing with trauma, anxiety, depression and relational conflict. I utilize a trauma-informed, strengths-based approach tailoring therapeutic techniques to each individual’s goals. Please feel free to contact me for more information and support.
(808) 210-6409 View (808) 210-6409
Photo of Ho'oko LLC, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Ho'oko LLC
Marriage & Family Therapist
Verified Verified
Waipahu, HI 96797
Ho'oko LLC endeavors to provide the highest standards of clinical and ethical therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, children/adolescents and groups of all demographic backgrounds.
Ho'oko LLC is a private counseling center comprised of a team of licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed psychologist, and certified substance abuse counselors. Ho'oko means to fulfill, to complete, come to pass, to succeed. We are driven by the mission to "fulfill lives through counseling."
Ho'oko LLC endeavors to provide the highest standards of clinical and ethical therapeutic services to individuals, couples, families, children/adolescents and groups of all demographic backgrounds.
Ho'oko LLC is a private counseling center comprised of a team of licensed marriage and family therapists, licensed psychologist, and certified substance abuse counselors. Ho'oko means to fulfill, to complete, come to pass, to succeed. We are driven by the mission to "fulfill lives through counseling."
(808) 375-7712 View (808) 375-7712
Photo of Bob Wiley, Counselor in Hawaii
Bob Wiley
Counselor, MA, LMHC, CSAC
Verified Verified
Kailua Kona, HI 96740
Would you like to improve the way you feel about yourself? Do you feel like you are not good enough the way you are? Do you worry about what others might think if you say or do the “wrong” thing? Are regrets of the past or fears of the future affecting the way you experience life? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, uncertainty, or relationship concerns?
Would you like to improve the way you feel about yourself? Do you feel like you are not good enough the way you are? Do you worry about what others might think if you say or do the “wrong” thing? Are regrets of the past or fears of the future affecting the way you experience life? Do you struggle with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, uncertainty, or relationship concerns?
(808) 468-8583 View (808) 468-8583
Photo of Moani Silva, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Moani Silva
Marriage & Family Therapist, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kamuela, HI 96743
She has experience working with sexual trauma, childhood trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, parenting struggles and mood disorders.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
She has experience working with sexual trauma, childhood trauma, relationship issues, depression, anxiety, PTSD, parenting struggles and mood disorders.
Moani Silva is an LMFT who was born and raised in Hawaii. She has experience working with people from all different ethnic backgrounds and believes in treating the whole being. She uses a conscious and holistic approach when working with individuals, families and children to help them thrive and experience living life to its fullest. She works to empower clients to awaken their self-guidance system, embrace their authentic selves, open to a life worth living, and step onto their own unique life-path.
(808) 278-9415 View (808) 278-9415
Photo of Susan J Ray, Marriage & Family Therapist in Hawaii
Susan J Ray
Marriage & Family Therapist, MA, LMFT
Verified Verified
Kailua, HI 96734
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in depression & relationship therapy. My treatment approach is client centered & geared towards working "with you", & loved ones if so requested. We will develop a plan together that involves psychotherapy & treatment goals built around activities, places & things you and your loved one's enjoy. I am always honored to be a part of a person's or couple's journey towards increased health and mental wellness. Nothing is more rewarding to me than helping someone uncover happiness. I am from Kailua, & have over 27 years of experience working directly with people recovering from mild/severe depression & other emotional situations.
As a Marriage & Family Therapist I specialize in depression & relationship therapy. My treatment approach is client centered & geared towards working "with you", & loved ones if so requested. We will develop a plan together that involves psychotherapy & treatment goals built around activities, places & things you and your loved one's enjoy. I am always honored to be a part of a person's or couple's journey towards increased health and mental wellness. Nothing is more rewarding to me than helping someone uncover happiness. I am from Kailua, & have over 27 years of experience working directly with people recovering from mild/severe depression & other emotional situations.
(808) 227-6791 View (808) 227-6791
Photo of Alfred A. Sison, Psychologist in Hawaii
Alfred A. Sison
Psychologist, PsyD, MFT
Verified Verified
Honolulu, HI 96813  (Online Only)
Populations I have had experience over the last 20+ years; Individuals - Adults, Adolescents, Couples - Marital/PreMarital, Family Therapy, EFT, Serious Mental Illness, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, School Based Behavioral Health, Health Psychology, Trauma, US Military Active Duty/Veterans/Dependents, and the Diverse/Marginalized populations of Hawaii.
With over 19+ years of experience in Hawaii Behavioral/Mental Health, I provide psychotherapy and stress mgmt coaching as a Clinical Psychologist with a subspecialty in Marriage and Family Therapy. My professional goals are to help individuals, couples, or a family, find resolve, contentment, and meaningfulness. Through evidenced based practices, I intend to provide a non-judgmental, neutral, and safe, clinical psychotherapy environment/relationship. We may have to develop a new direction and purpose or simply clarify what is. I am a therapist with sensitivity, compassion, and an awareness of cultural diversity issues.
Populations I have had experience over the last 20+ years; Individuals - Adults, Adolescents, Couples - Marital/PreMarital, Family Therapy, EFT, Serious Mental Illness, Sexual Abuse, Domestic Violence, School Based Behavioral Health, Health Psychology, Trauma, US Military Active Duty/Veterans/Dependents, and the Diverse/Marginalized populations of Hawaii.
With over 19+ years of experience in Hawaii Behavioral/Mental Health, I provide psychotherapy and stress mgmt coaching as a Clinical Psychologist with a subspecialty in Marriage and Family Therapy. My professional goals are to help individuals, couples, or a family, find resolve, contentment, and meaningfulness. Through evidenced based practices, I intend to provide a non-judgmental, neutral, and safe, clinical psychotherapy environment/relationship. We may have to develop a new direction and purpose or simply clarify what is. I am a therapist with sensitivity, compassion, and an awareness of cultural diversity issues.
(808) 393-0320 View (808) 393-0320
Photo of Petra Parvati Meedt, Marriage & Family Therapist Intern in Hawaii
Petra Parvati Meedt
Marriage & Family Therapist Intern, MA, MS
Verified Verified
Hilo, HI 96720
Petra Parvati Meedt, MS, MA is a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern offering telehealth therapy for individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. Additionally, to being a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern in Hawaii, she is a licensed psychologist in Puerto Rico, Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) in Texas, and a Clinical Hypnotherapist and certified Yoga Teacher. Her professional training includes a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the Interamerican University, Puerto Rico, specialized in Family therapy and a second master’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Freiburg in Germany.
Petra Parvati Meedt, MS, MA is a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern offering telehealth therapy for individuals, couples, and families in English and Spanish. Additionally, to being a Marriage and Family Therapy Intern in Hawaii, she is a licensed psychologist in Puerto Rico, Licensed Psychological Associate (LPA) in Texas, and a Clinical Hypnotherapist and certified Yoga Teacher. Her professional training includes a master’s degree in Counseling Psychology from the Interamerican University, Puerto Rico, specialized in Family therapy and a second master’s degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of Freiburg in Germany.
(808) 698-5858 View (808) 698-5858
Couples Counseling Therapists

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.